THE ESQUIMAUX DOG.

Rodney and Otamatea Times, Waitemata and Kaipara Gazette, 17 February 1915, Page 3

THE ESQUIMAUX DOG.

The real Esquimaux dog of pure breed is a rarity. These dogs are so nearly akin to wolves that the breeds become mixed, and it is found extremely hard to keep them separate. Especially is this true where there are not excellent facilities for keeping the. dogs confined. It is no unusual thing for the dogs to run away and take refuge with the wolves.

It is said to be very difficult to make up teams of thoroughbred dogs. In almost all cases there will be several that will show theip wolfish origin most plainly. The wolf cross produces a dog closely resembling the wolf. The creature is extremely vicious, unreliable, and hard to manage, but very hardy, swift, and enduring.

With several well-trained dogs in the band, the sledge-driver takes large loads of goods across the country. He travels rapidly, and safely, provided he can keep his team in subjection. Occasionally "the wolf-dogs will gnaw the straps of their harness a"nd break away, in spite of every precaution.

The lash is considered the only method of government. Moral suasion has been tried, but with somewhat indifferent results. The animals are so accustomed to force that they seem unable to appreciate or understand kindness. Possibly, if these dogs were taken in hand and gently trained from their birth, something might be done with, them.